Try the Makers Empire 3D Learning Program

During this trial, you will get to design in 3D (no experience required), learn how to integrate 3D design and printing in the classroom, step into the shoes of your student, and try from a choice of lesson plans.

Step 1: Learn about Makers Empire

Before you get started, we recommend it can be helpful to know how the Makers Empire Learning Program fits together. In this 20 min webinar you will learn about 3D design and printing, how 3D design integrates into the classroom, designing with the Makers Empire 3D software and the lesson plans we offer.

Step 2: Download Makers Empire

Choose the platform that your students would be using the most or you would like to test.

Step 3: Create your account

Open the Makers Empire software.

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Click on create account

Choose your username

Enter the license key from email

Choose password & General class

Watch the video for extra help

Your Makers Empire account is all created!

Step 4: Try out the Makers Empire Software

Now you are logged into the Makers Empire software please choose the Shaper module, to try your first designs. You will first do the Shaper tutorial to learn about the basic controls and techniques. After that, select one of the follow along videos below and see how you go.

Now open up the Makers Empire software and choose the right design module. The Bubbles lesson plan will require you to open up Shaper module, and the Maze lesson plan will get you to open up the Blocker module. You can now see how a student might start their first 3D design lesson.

Step 6: Try the teacher’s dashboard

View your 3D designs

Now that you have created a few designs, you can log into the teacher’s dashboard and explore. Your email has your login information.

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Go to www.makersempire.com and click on the teacher login (top right corner)

You will see your profile, including your username, and students / classes set up.

To view the designs you have created click on the classes option in the left hand menu. You will see your name in the students list, and the designs you have created.

Now that you have discovered your designs in the teacher’s dashboard. There are a few ways you can interact with these designs. These include downloading the STL file (format to send to 3D printer), commenting on designs, viewing it in 3D, deleting designs and even getting your files remotely printed.

Look at the Lesson Library

Click on the lesson ideas menu item on the left. You can browse and see the different lesson plans and ideas we offer to integrate into your class. Whilst you can’t download the lesson, you will be able to see all the topics and themes. Subject areas vary across maths, science, technology, english, arts, geography and history.

Step 7: Brainstorming and Evaluation

Spend some time thinking about how you would integrate 3D printing and design into your classroom. What subject areas would you start with? Don’t worry, customers receive professional development training, part of which will help you formulate a plan of implementation.

Next Steps

Need to find out more? Please email us to ask questions or request a quote if you haven’t received the pricing for your school or district.

COMPLETED THE MAKERS EMPIRE 3D TRIAL?

What teachers think

"The lesson plans provide authentic learning experiences that help our teachers integrate 3D printing and encourages our students to print with a purpose. We appreciated that the Makers Empire trainers were dedicated educators, with former classroom teaching experience. They helped our teachers understand how to use the printers and program but most importantly how to thoughtfully integrate the application in the classroom."

"My department was searching for applications and curriculum that would align to the common core standards. We found reference to [Makers Empire] on the web and reached out to see if what they were doing would meet our needs... We were impressed that they were addressing the use of 3D printing not simply as an endpoint but as a true curriculum enabling tool. We simply had not found anyone else doing the work required to create quality educational activities... The New York State Teacher Centers and the New York Institute of Technology have been working with Makers Empire on what has turned out to be a transformational pilot with New York State Schools. Prior to the pilot most of our schools were struggling to understand how to integrate 3D design and printing into cross curricula activities. The Makers Empire pilot has provided the beacon for schools to follow that are opening opportunities for students that simply were not on the table before the pilot."

Grant Small, Principal, Grange Primary School

Grange, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"...wonderful day. I heard a few teachers talking about this being the best professional learning day they have done in their careers! Great job, we are planning to share with the Governing Council and run a parent information night to follow this up."

Rene Wavell, Assistant Principal, North Adelaide Primary School

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"The teacher resources were comprehensive and supported the easy implementation of the lesson. The Makers Empire 3D design app made sophisticated designing available and accessible to young students. They were totally engaged as they designed their very own 3D Hungry Caterpillar."

Stuart Sluggett, Upper Primary Curriculum Coordinator, Scotch College

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"At Scotch College Adelaide, 3D printing has been integrated into the Year 6 curriculum during the past 12 months. The pupils really enjoy utilising 3D printing technology in the classroom and the session provided by Makers Empire allowed the students to showcase their knowledge and creativity. This was yet another opportunity for our students to extend their learning."

"I’ve been astounded at how much the students using (Makers Empire) have developed over the last 18 months. The kinds of design they’re doing now are very sophisticated. I give them a design brief and the extent to which they take it always surprises me. Using (Makers Empire) has really accelerated their learning.”

Sophia K, Teacher, Fulham North Primary School

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"It was an absolute delight to have you work with my Foundation (5 year old) students. They're still talking about the experience! ... What you presented to the children was fantastic! Thank you for presenting an age appropriate and engaging lesson. The lesson was scaffolded to suit the needs of Foundation students and the students felt so proud to have independently designed their own dinosaur and key ring."

Jon Dyer, Preparatory ICT Teacher, Westminster School

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"The Year 7 class at Westminster Preparatory School had a fantastic time... Students had the opportunity to design and create their own 3D object. This was a great way for them to learn about the design process from both concept to production. We believe this technology has a place in student learning and fits in nicely with the Australian Curriculum and many levels of primary education."

Ilia Tsoutouras, Principal, Virginia Primary School

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"As a school we need to ensure we provide as many broad opportunities as possible to promote and prepare our students to be life-long learners. Many of the jobs that exist today will be obsolete by the time our children enter the workforce. As a school we are excited by the creative and innovative opportunities the relationship with Makers Empire will bring through 3D design and printing."

Bill Kelton, Teacher, Victor Harbour High School

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"...we looked extensively for a software program that was inclusive of all learning styles. The 3D design & printing app is brilliant in the way it allows students to start at a level that's suited to previous learning and nurtures their journey forward. The developed lesson plans can be delivered explicitly to the class or used as individual tutorials and we feel confident in the notion that we are addressing the ACARA performance standards."

Rebecca Burgmann, Junior School Teacher, Abbotsleigh School

New South Wales, AUSTRALIA

"I just wanted to let you know that Makers is up and running and the girls have come up with some wonderful ideas. I had them complete a design brief, first outlining something they’d like to design, create, manipulate etc. To help them do this I had them think of something that annoys them, they love, helps them, could potentially make life easier etc."

John Crerar, Head of the Preparatory School, The Scots College

New South Wales, AUSTRALIA

"This is an exciting initiative which we foresee will enrich the learning experience of Scots boys. The usefulness of the 3D equipment to the students is evident as their visualisations become reality.”

Stephanie Comino, Preparatory Science Facilitator, The Scots College

New South Wales, AUSTRALIA

"We are currently using Makers Empire with the whole of year 5 at the moment and have brought a second 3D printer to keep up!! The Learning Support Platform and its new design looks awesome, the functionality, navigation and amount of information available is excellent. Thanks!"

Heather Pope, Head of Junior School, Presbyterian Ladies College

Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

"Students have been learning about creating stories and developing characters. The students designed a character on their iPads, which were then printed using the latest 3D printing technology. Together with their buddies from Scotch (College), the students videoed their stories using their 3D characters and backdrops as settings. The narratives that took place between the students as they created their stories were very entertaining."

Clay McCann, Deputy Principal, Labrador State School

Queensland, AUSTRALIA

"We are certainly excited to begin investigating the possibilities this will open up to our students in multiple areas of the curriculum. The Makers Empire app makes it easy for our students to begin designing and appraising their creations and then gives them immediate feedback with the end result being their very own 3D model."

Stephen Corcoran, Director of Digital Learning, St Stephen’s School

Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

"...our staff were genuinely impressed... The Makers Empire 3D printing iPad app exceeded our expectations. The design and creative elements of this software have been carefully designed to engage children while opening up numerous educational opportunities and learning experiences. We loved the Teacher (Dashboard) with its support, ideas and integration of the Australian Curriculum. A great way to expose our students to this rapidly emerging technology that will have a significant impact on their lives."

Albert Wong Computer Subject Panel Head, Lee Kau Yan Memorial School

Hong Kong, CHINA

"In the future 3D printing will be as simple as 2D printing... but its effect on industry will be much greater. Through designing 3D models and printing them out, students understand the importance of maintaining a balance between practicality and creativity. Makers Empire is a great app for students... and will lead to a brighter future.”

Elaine Whelen, Head of School, ISA International School

Guangzhou, CHINA.

"Our students study key concepts and discover knowledge of the world around them through an enquiry-driven approach to learning. Design and 3D printing with Makers Empire will help support our students develop important skills such as design thinking, problem solving and critical analysis.”

Tammy Wang, Grade 5 & 6 Program Director, Living World Shanghai

Shanghai, CHINA

"It is important to prepare our students with a world-class education through a curriculum integrated with academic training and practical learning. Tomorrow’s international currency includes developing skills in STEAM through society transforming technology such as 3D printing. Our students develop international perspectives, creativity, and social awareness for the 21st century.”

Bob Levy, Professor Garfield Foundation.

Albany, USA.

"The Professor Garfield Foundation has been a leading advocate of high quality curriculum for over a decade. We strive to find outstanding educational partners who know how to connect with students and teachers alike. The last worldwide 3D printing competition Makers Empire conducted with us was a prime example of how they can make learning fun and meaningful by challenging students to use their creativity and ingenuity."

Shneur Garb, Ben Porat Yosef Yeshiva Day School

New Jersey, USA

“The software has lesson plans based on many state standards with many modules to choose from. Maker’s Empire can be used to teach science, math and even art, K-12. The 3D-printing course was not as challenging as the grade level I was given — first graders!... However, their enthusiasm and absolute thirst for knowledge is awesome to see. They blaze through the challenging 3D lesson plans… Seeing the students faces when the IT team at BPY brings the 3D prints to the classroom is just something I can’t describe. The best part is while walking in the hallway with the huge iPad cart, some eighth graders ask who made that. I point to the first graders, who grin ear to ear.”

Dr. Tani Foger, Principal, Yeshivat He’Atid

New Jersey, USA

"Our students were riveted by the magic of this new technology! Watching their creations come to life they were spellbound, and we had to literally pry them away from the computers when the session ended."

Shauna Wood, Year 1-3 Teacher, Carlton School

Port Augusta, South Australia

"I think it is great because it integrates so many curriculum areas that we have to do in a busy classroom. You have got your maths, science, you can do literacy, then you have also got your digital technology and design technology, and art as well... We are in an ever-changing world and we all have to keep up."

Aaron Vigor, Teacher, Yankalilla Area School

Yankalilla, South Australia

"Makers Empire is friendly towards all ability groups and help engage students who are less motivated to be working in the classroom. It gives students the opportunity to be creative and learn by trial and error in a digital format. On paper some students get disheartened when drawing designs and have to erase mistakes and makes their work look messy. Using this program it is simple to remove mistakes. I think this has been a fantastic tool to have in the classroom. I have many teacher friends and have actually shown them the program and they are all very impressed."

Bianca Laister, Deputy Principal, Birdwood Primary School

Birdwood, South Australia

"This was the best PD that I have been involved in for ages... This whole project has been inspiring for teachers and students in empowering students to become change makers. Our students were so engaged and excited about solving a real world problem... The fact that they could see they could help someone through their own design, meant their learning was authentic and valued."

Chris Bennie, Assistant Principal, Stirling East Primary School

Stirling East, South Australia

"I think the lesson plans are fantastic for teachers - especially those who may find the hardest part being the inspiration/ideas on where to start...The Makers Empire app is a MASSIVE value add to the learning. We could have taught children how to design an iPad stand, learn what makes a structure strong, what are strong ‘shapes’, how to keep an item balanced etc etc etc - but the ability to create their design in 3D AND then print it makes the learning so much more obtainable and relevant/real."

Abbie Krieg, Year 3/4 Teacher, Snowtown Primary School

Snowtown, South Australia

"Students developed a range of design skills..They learnt what the design process looked like, learnt how to create their designs in Shaper, learnt about scale when printing their designs. Students learnt to measure their objects as well as problem solved to make their design as similar on Makers Empire as their initial design... the students were so engaged and thoroughly enjoyed the learning experience...(Makers Empire) is a wonderful program that engages all students well!"

Giovanna Iannicelli, Teacher, St Mary’s College

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"A roadmap to start 3D printing at our school."

Nicholas Smith, Deputy Head of Junior School, St John’s Grammar

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

"The Makers Empire team came to run a session on 3D printing at our STEM day. It was the most popular session of the day and the students clearly had a fantastic time designing in 3D."

Mary Bongiovanni, Director of Design Thinking, Pace Academy

Atlanta, Georgia, USA

“I’m sending you the very best wishes and enormous gratitude for connecting our students with your learning program. To say this purchase has been transformative might sound like an exaggeration but it’s pretty darn close to the truth."

Irene Barry-Philord, Teacher, Eneida M. Hartner Elementary

Miami, Florida, USA

"The software is easy to use and kid friendly... The curriculum has been great and it even fits into the objectives that I am currently teaching... When we first started using the curriculum I thought it was going to be a huge task getting my students to learn this. But instead of teaching, I have become a facilitator. They have really taken off and are helping each other solve problems. When we end our day I may about 20 designs that were created, but when we start the next day I see that number increase to about 50. They are even designing at home."

Christopher Burdman, STEM Teacher, Joseph P Tynan Elementary School

Boston, Massachusetts, USA

"After having tried several softwares I can say hands down that Makers Empire has been the easiest for my students in grades 3-5 to access and manipulate."

Karen Owen, Technology Teacher, Grace Christian Academy

Knoxville, Tennessee, USA

"I love Makers Empire software. It is great to use with elementary age students... I love teaching students how to design for 3D printing. It’s so fun watching them problem solve to create a certain shape by adding or taking away."

Maria (Mimi) Brown, Program Support Teacher, St. Joseph Catholic School

Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada

"The software is fantastic! Very user friendly. The students enjoyed beginning with the challenges and it was a useful way for them to jump right in! ... The students are seeing the real life applications of math and engineering in the real world... (but) I think the best part so far has been the spatial reasoning - students are solving the problems they encounter and so I can really see some critical thinking happening"

Jennifer Auten, 2nd Grade Teacher, Mont Claire Elementary School

Los Altos, California, USA

“I use Makers Empire to enhance students’ ability to demonstrate understanding across a wide range of topics. As we work through different curriculum, including geometric shapes, things we’re scared of, plants and insects, and engineering design challenges, students create 3D models related to the content… We use the app to create 3D products that are printed as well as those that are not, but still viewed in 3D on the iPads.”

Casey Corn, STEM Teacher, Chesnee Elementary School

South Carolina, USA

"I have worked with several design software but Makers Empire is the easiest to use... One of the best things students learned is that it is okay to not get the "right" answer the first time, or second time. Students know that "failing" is part of the design process and problem solving. Students have expanded their problem solving skills to think more outside of the box... Before, my students were limited in their STEM applications and designs due to financial issues and materials available. Now each student is able to have an account for their designs and can work at their pace which is meeting them on their individual need. Through this, my after school STEM club has gained interested to where students had to be put on a waiting list. Students have discussed participating in STEM clubs in middle school and high school as well as more interest in engineering type careers."

Robin McGinnis, Teacher, North Elementary School

Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

"This has been a wonderful new way to teach and motivate my students. They are so eager and excited to learn in this new way!... I do find this program to be helpful in developing my students interest in STEM subjects. They are beginning to see real-life implications to what they learning to do in class and how they could develop prototypes of objects that they could develop and then produce to sell... At first, I preferred Tinkercad because I knew this software better. However, now that I have had some time to work with Makers Empire it is so much better. It does a much better job of showing you how to build and create. The challenges help tremendously!...The overall enthusiasm towards school and learning has increased tremendously. Students who are typically reluctant learners have come to life. One student was chronically absent and has now improved his attendance. He asks me each morning if he can get on the computer!"

Jeff Hennigar, Grade 4/5 Teacher, BLT Senior Elementary School

Timberlea, Nova Scotia, Canada

"Makers Empire has been a great tool for many of my students that find other CAD software difficult. Some students have difficulty visualizing in a 3D workspace; 3D modelling is great practice to build spatial sense... This is linked to a skill in our math curriculum, so it's great to give a real world application for students to practice... Originally I started with my whole class using TinkerCAD. However, when given the choice many of my students gravitated to Makers Empire. I'm not sure if they prefer using the touch screen on the tablets to manipulate their designs, the gamification, or something else, but many have been successful with it and have made some great designs! 3D printing tech lets my students see themselves as creators and how it can help others. They feel empowered by the possibilities of the technology and the leadership they are able to take in their school."